EL3218-0018

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The EL3218-0018 EtherCAT terminal offers 8 input channels, supports sensor types such as Pt100 and Ni100, features a measurement range of -200°C to +850°C for Pt sensors, and weighs approximately 60 grams. Part of the EL EtherCAT Terminals series by Beckhoff, it operates within -25°C to +60°C and has an IP20 protection rating.

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Product Description:

The EL3218-0018 EL EtherCAT Terminal is used in modular and distributed automation systems to provide precise, isolated, and uniform thermal signal measurement. This terminal is manufactured by Beckhoff, and its weight is about 95 g to ensure easy installation without contributing much load to DIN rail configurations. This input terminal has 8 differential analog input channels, which are each capable of integrating thermocouple sensors.

The EL3218-0018 input terminal has a protection rating of IP20, and it works well in conditions with relative air humidity up to 95%, as long as condensation is not present. Physically, this terminal has small dimensions of about 30 mm x 100 mm x 70 mm, and in width alignment, it is reduced to 24 mm, which is perfect for space-constrained control cabinets. The input filter inside this terminal has a cut-off frequency of 1 kHz that efficiently filters high-frequency noise to provide stable data even in fluctuating conditions. This terminal also processes signals with a preset conversion time of about 170 ms to give a stable and timely update to the control system. The EL3218-0018 input terminal features excellent electrical protection via 500 V electrical isolation between the field voltage and E-bus, which protects the communication bus and connected systems from electrical faults or surges.

The input process image width of this terminal supports a maximum of 32 bytes for a rich representation of data per cycle within the EtherCAT network. This EL3218-0018 input terminal accommodates programmable 2-wire and 3-wire connection technology for easy configuration according to the wiring scheme. Having a resolution of either 0.1°C or 0.01°C per digit, this terminal provides high resolution in temperature data acquisition where high-precision thermal monitoring is necessary.

Configuration
via TwinCAT System Manager
Connection technology
2 or 3-wire (adjustable)
Conversion time
Approx. 170 ms preset
Dimensions (W x H x D)
Approx. 30 mm x 100 mm x 70 mm (width aligned: 24 mm)
Electrical isolation
500 V (E-bus/field voltage)
Ground reference
Differential
Input filter cut-off frequency
Typ. 1 kHz
Measuring current
< 0.5 mA (load-dependent)
Number of inputs
8
Permissible relative air humidity
95%, no condensation
Protection rating
IP20
Resolution
0.1°C or 0.01°C per digit
Weight
Approx. 95 g
Width in the process image
max. 32 bytes input

Frequently Asked Questions about EL3218-0018:

Q: Why does the EL3218-0018 use a 170 ms conversion time?

A: The preset conversion time ensures consistent timing across all inputs. This supports synchronized data acquisition in time-critical EtherCAT networks.

Q: What is the purpose of the 1 kHz input filter in EL3218-0018?

A: The filter suppresses high-frequency noise, enhancing signal quality. It helps maintain accurate readings even in electrically noisy environments.

Q: Why is differential input used in the EL3218-0018 terminal?

A: Differential input eliminates ground loop errors. This improves measurement accuracy in large-scale or grounded systems.

Q: How does 500 V electrical isolation protect connected devices?

A: It separates field and bus sides, preventing voltage spikes from damaging the EtherCAT controller. This isolation ensures long-term system reliability.

Q: Can the EL3218-0018 operate under fluctuating environmental humidity?

A: Yes, it supports up to 95% relative humidity. However, condensation must be avoided to maintain operational integrity.


Internal Product Review

  • ‘‘The EL3218-0018 terminal from Beckhoff delivers exceptional accuracy with 0.01°C resolution and stable readings under 0.5 mA load. Its 170 ms conversion time ensures timely data processing. With 2-/3-wire support and 500 V isolation, this module is essential for precision temperature control in noise-sensitive industrial environments.’’

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